CATARACT

EYE CLINIC

Cataract is clouding and thickening of the normally clear and transparent lens. This eventually impairs the ability of the lens to focus the light rays in the back of the eye. As a result, the vision becomes blurry and distorted. Patients with cataracts can also complain of glare problems and in worst cases, blindness.

Cataract is a natural process with aging with most cases occurring over sixties. As one ages, the cells of the lens age too and aggregate in the centre of the lens impairing its clarity. However, some factors like smoking, alcohol, diabetes mellitus, steroids use, malnutrition and eye trauma can accelerate the process resulting in cataract at a younger age.

Types of Treatment

Surgery

Surgery is the mainstay treatment for cataract. It is indicated when the patient’s symptoms start to affect their daily living activities. It is a simple and a low risk procedure with high success rate. It is done under local anaesthesia and most commonly involves removal of the damaged lens and replacing it with a synthetic lens.